New for 2015, but not even on their website yet, the X-One system is a new cockpit group from ITM. Consisting of a carbon fiber stem, handlebar and seat post, the X-One group maximizes the strengths of each component to get the most out of the system. Most companies talk about comfort this, and stiffness that, trying to convince a customer that their product can be both. A stem/handlebar system may actually be able to do just that by creating each of the components to do one of the tasks.
What features can make a cockpit do it all? Click more to see…
ITM took to the X-One to maximize stiffness and comfort by designing the handlebar for the comfort part of the equation, and then the stem for the stiffness.
At the stem, maximum stiffness is achieved by using a continuous construction around the handlebar, so there is no loss of power through a faceplate. Using what they call the G.W.S. (Grip Wedge System), it then uses two wedges and a single bolt behind the handlebar to hold the bar in place. ITM says the stem will work with 1 1/8″ and 1 1/4″ steer tubes, although there are no details about how. Claimed weight for the stem is 125g for the 100mm length, including the required special top cap and wedge bolt system
At the handlebar, the design is very ergonomic, with large flats for the wrist. Being the “comfort” part of the equation, it uses the benefits of molded carbon to get the most ergonomic shape for the hands. It also features internal cable routing to keep this shape clean. Available in sizes 40cm, 42cm and 44cm, it weighs in at 215g in size 42.
Weighing in at 261g for a 27.2 size, the Alloy/Carbon X-One seat post uses a 7075 head and carbon fiber shaft. The head design features their patented Sit’N’Go micro adjustment, which uses a small cam for tilt adjustment. Sit’N’Go is a design that keeps the top clamp small enough to fit between the saddle rails so that the saddle can be installed on the seat post without removing any parts. If you have ever tried to install a saddle on a dual-bolt seat post with large top clamp, you will appreciate how easy this makes it. The cam for tilt adjustment is a side-access allen bolt, also well thought out for easy adjustment without a lot of tinkering.
MSRP for the group is $249.95 for the X-One stem, $349.95 for the X-One handlebar and $184.95 for the X-One seat post. The entire group comes in a matching matte finish with red and white decals.
